Whatever stage you’re at, the secret is to balance what's hidden, and what is revealed. Just as you might have learnt as a teenager that it’s best not to show it all off at once; as a pregnant woman, it’s best not to cover it all at once: There’s no need to wear a tent unless you really want to!

Of course, it might be worth having a rummage in your wardrobe for something that has been waiting for an outing. Was the previously ‘not quite right’ dress, just waiting for some pregnancy cleavage? Or is there a fancy top that could be perfect with a bump band or tailored maternity trousers? Just be warned that the bigger your bump, the more it will have raised the front of your dress by the big day; especially if it’s not specifically maternity.

If there’s nothing quite right, or you just fancy a new outfit; there’s no need to spend a fortune on something you might only wear once. Not only are there plenty of affordable options; there are many pieces that could be dressed up or down afterwards. Whatever you choose, there are ways to make sure it’s not just a one-wear wonder.

1. Fancy But Affordable

If you feel like going all out, ASOS have the most exciting range of maternity occasion-wear which won’t break the bank (with the added bonus of offering petite/tall maternity ranges) while New Look, Next, Dorothy Perkins and Seraphine also provide some tempting alternatives.

2. The Nursing-Ready Dress

Is it one of those years with a different wedding every weekend? Wrap dresses and double-layering offer easy access for nursing mums, as well as flattering the figure. These dresses could last you for months to come.

3. Easy Separates

If you’re keeping things casual or want pieces that are more versatile, why not go for separates? Even the simplest outfit can look unbelievably chic when paired the right heels and a bit of statement jewellery.

4. Dress Me Up, Or Dress Me Down

With a nice hairdo and fancy shoes, they’re perfect for any smart occasion. But with leggings and trainers, they could also create ‘Oh I just threw this on’ casual everyday glamour.

What occasions are you dressing up for this summer? Let us know in the comments section below. And if you're looking for ways to wear your new outfits for longer; check out our Post-Pregnancy article for extra styling tips.

About the Author

Emily is our Digital Editor. She has three awesome nieces, and has accidentally worn the same outfit as them on at least one occasion. Emily likes making things, including hand-drawn cards, and a darn good chocolate cake. She still sounds very English, despite living in Dublin for the last nine years. More insight into the workings of her brain can be found on dancingcakesandsilence.blogspot.com.